‘I Dream In Color’ sees Magixx sidestep slightly from his typical R&B explorations to unfurl the highs and lows of his life—particularly the lows—laying bare his experiences in a deeply vulnerable way.
Emerging onto the music scene in 2021 under the umbrella of one of Nigeria’s most prominent record labels, Mavin Records, Magixx quickly made a statement with his self-titled EP, ‘Magixx’. He drew particular attention with the success of his R&B fusion “Love Don’t Cost A Dime,” which culminated in a nomination for “Rookie of the Year” at the Headies Awards. Poised to make his mark, he followed up with his sophomore EP ‘ATOM’ in 2022, quickly connecting with audiences and lovers of his craft. His unique way with melodies and signature vocals laid a sturdy foundation for his artistry, and with the backing of his record label, a successful career trajectory seemed inevitable.
But unlike his previous projects, Magixx’s debut album struggles to produce a song that could leave a lasting impression on the mainstream audience—especially at a time when Afrobeats’ soundscape is evolving. This isn’t due to his songwriting ability or artistic depth but rather a result of production choices.
Much of the album features song arrangements that feel mismatched with their production, leaving the project flat—at best, an alternative offering suited to a niche audience with a particular taste for Magixx’s music.
The rollout for ‘I Dream In Color’, which began as early as 2023, became more evident following the tease and eventual release of the emotive “Winter & Summer,” where Magixx grapples with strong emotions, numbing them with alcohol and illicit substances. In the weeks that followed, he unveiled the track-list at what appeared to be a listening party, with the titles printed on the back of his t-shirt. ‘I Dream In Color’ consists of 13 tracks, including four lead singles—tracks that, had they been withheld, might have alleviated the album’s overall dreariness—and no new features.
‘I Dream In Color’ opens with the weighty “Consistency,” where Magixx curiously finds strength and solace in gratitude. Both in “Consistency” and throughout the album, he shares stories of resilience, navigating personal struggles while balancing his responsibilities and career as an artist. This theme spills into the second track, “Ori Mi,” where a prayerful Magixx commits his hustle into God’s hands, resulting in an excellent Afro-adura hustler’s anthem. The refreshing sound of “With You” sparks some excitement, showcasing a love-struck Magixx on a familiar subject he has mastered, delivered with such sublime ease that it instantly connects with the listener.
Previously released singles like “Okay,” where Magixx wrestles with overwhelming responsibilities and familial expectations, the South East-influenced “Vibration” featuring Jeriq, and “Bad Decisions & Foreplay” are well-placed throughout the album, contributing positively to its sequencing.
However, midway through the project, the absence of sonic variety makes it difficult—almost impossible—to pinpoint a personal favourite or standout track. The album’s uneventful progression renders the listening experience tedious, raising questions about whether Magixx recorded his debut album under the grandest circumstances and sharpest artistic form. There’s a slight shift in energy with “Eleven,” temporarily breaking free from the monotony, leading into the potentially mainstream-leaning “Sexy Lady.”
While Magixx makes a bold move in offering listeners access to a more sensitive, private aspect of his life, ‘I Dream In Color’ exposes a deficit in his versatility. The tracks feel too indistinguishable in melody, cadence, and production, making the album a challenging listen despite its deeply personal themes.
RATING: 6.5
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